Halloween treats, costumes, and decorations are exciting for parents and children alike, but these holiday staples may be associated with unpleasant reactions, such as contact dermatitis or urticaria (hives).
As Halloween approaches and you are choosing your child’s costume, here are some helpful tips from Justine Fenner, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, on how to protect your child’s skin.
Know the signs of a reaction
Justine Fenner, MD
Your child may be experiencing an adverse skin reaction if redness, itching, dryness, or blistering of the skin develops. If you notice these signs, immediately wash off any make-up/body paint and remove their costume and accessories. For some children, the rash may improve with removal of the offending agent, but others may require topical corticosteroids or oral antihistamines.
It is important to note that not all reactions develop equally. Conditions such as contact urticaria are more likely to develop immediately following an exposure. Irritant contact dermatitis may develop after a couple of hours or days, and allergic contact dermatitis may not be seen until two to three days following exposure.
Continue to watch for skin reactions even in the days following Halloween. Keep an eye on any reactions, and contact your doctor if your child isn’t improving with at-home treatments.
Do a spot check before applying face paint and makeup
Face paint and make-ups may contain preservatives such as methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone, dyes, or fragrances that can be irritating to the skin. Be sure to test the face paint or makeup on a small area of your child’s skin, such as a spot on the inner wrist, for at least a week prior to full application on Halloween, to make sure your child does not develop a reaction.
Avoid false eyelashes and nails
Fake eyelashes are held in place with glues, and acrylic nails contain potential contact allergens such as cyanoacrylates, latex, and formaldehyde. Furthermore, these products may damage your child’s nails and eyelashes over time.
Beware of hidden nickel
Costume jewelry and accessories, such as belts, can also cause skin reactions as they commonly contain metals such as nickel, which is one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis.
Opt for a natural, breathable fabric
When choosing a costume for your child, 100 percent cotton fabric is recommended. Other materials, such as wool and polyester, may be irritating to the skin. Irritation is especially likely if your child has a history of sensitive skin or eczema. Looser fitting, breathable fabrics also decrease the incidence of skin issues.
Most importantly, have fun and Happy Halloween!